Hello all. I'm happy I found this forum, looks heavy loaded with info. I am looking to make a DIY CNC machine. Mainly for my architecture student girlfriend, but also to serve me in my DIY quest. I have moderate experience with electronics, little with mechanics. I built myself a tube amplifier and a set of speakers So I have confidence that I could finish such a project like a CNC machine. I saw some kits out there, made from wood. More accessible to me, mainly for my hobby purpose. I am interested in something like 17"x24" working area. Also wish to be able to use laser/spindle on the same machine (at a time of course). I wish to work mainly on wood/plastics and maybe metal engraving. Not heavy work as most projects will be about small pieces. Can you point me the right way to learn about this things? Like motors type/power needed for such an application, controllers, software and advantages/disadvantages over different setups? I have about 2000-3000$ to invest in such a project. Thank you very much and hope I posted in the right forum.